Uruguay Escape Saudi Arabia Upset as Al-Owais Heroics Secure 1-1 Draw

Abdulelah Al-Amri’s first-half header put Saudi Arabia ahead, but Maximiliano Araújo’s 79th-minute equaliser rescued a point for Uruguay after the Saudis survived 27 shots.

Uruguay avoided a major opening-day upset on Monday, salvaging a 1-1 draw against a disciplined Saudi Arabia side at the Miami Stadium after centre-back Abdulelah Al-Amri’s first-half header gave the Saudis a surprise lead.

Al-Amri rose highest in the 40th minute to head Saudi Arabia ahead, scoring his first international goal on the biggest stage and sending the Saudi supporters into celebration. The defender picked up a yellow card shortly after, but his goal stood as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s aggressive start.

Uruguay responded with relentless pressure in the second half. The South Americans dominated possession with 65 percent and registered an overwhelming 27 shots, 10 of which were on target. Manuel Ugarte came closest when his powerful effort struck the woodwork, but Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais produced a standout performance.

Al-Owais made five critical saves throughout the match, repeatedly denying Uruguay’s attacking efforts and keeping his side in the lead for nearly 40 minutes of the second half.

The equaliser finally arrived in the 79th minute. Toluca winger Maximiliano Araújo turned in a rebound after Federico Viñas’s initial attempt, finally beating Al-Owais and sparing Uruguay’s blushes.

Saudi Arabia managed seven shots, three on target, and held only 35 percent possession. They also earned four corners to Uruguay’s 14.

According to a report by Accra Street Journal, Uruguay will count themselves fortunate to escape with a point after dominating the statistics but failing to convert their chances. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, will take immense confidence from pushing a traditional South American powerhouse to the brink. Both teams leave with a point in Group H, alongside Spain and Cabo Verde who also drew 0-0 on Monday.

Source: Accra Street Journal 

Last Updated on June 16, 2026 by Samuel Kwame Boadu

Samuel Kwame Boadu

Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Accra Street Journal, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.

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